For nearly three decades, Karen Turner has been helping Central Oregon companies find exceptional talent—and helping professionals discover opportunities where they can make a meaningful impact. As Managing Director of Specialized Recruiting Group – Central Oregon, Karen brings a rare combination of deep recruiting expertise, business insight, and a genuine commitment to the people and organizations that make this community thrive.

Karen began her recruiting career in accounting and finance before joining Express Employment Professionals in Bend in 1997. She became Managing Director of what is now Specialized Recruiting Group in 2002 and has built her career around developing trusted, long-term relationships with clients and candidates. Her experience spans Accounting & Finance, Human Resources, Engineering, Manufacturing, Sales & Marketing, Information Technology, and executive and C-level search.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management with an emphasis in Human Resources from George Fox University and her SHRM-CP certification, Karen combines practical recruiting experience with a strong HR foundation. She has been recognized throughout her career for recruiting excellence, including being named Central Oregon’s HR Professional of the Year and earning recognition as a top professional recruiter within the Express organization.

Karen believes the best recruiting relationships go far beyond filling an open position. They are built on understanding a company’s culture, challenges, goals, and vision—and taking the time to understand what matters most to each candidate. Her approach is personal, consultative, and focused on creating connections that work for both sides.

A longtime Central Oregon resident, Karen is deeply invested in the community she calls home. She has served in leadership roles with Central Oregon SHRM, the Redmond Economic Development Inc. (REDI) board, and other regional organizations.

Outside of work, Karen enjoys taking full advantage of the Central Oregon lifestyle. She is an avid hiker, paddle boarder, and snowmobiler and loves spending time with her husband, Mike, and her 16 nieces and nephews.

Karen’s philosophy is simple: great recruiting starts with great relationships—and the right connection can change a career, a company, and a community.

Madeline Ball brings a people-first approach to professional recruiting, combining five years of recruiting experience with a strong business background and a genuine passion for connecting talented professionals with opportunities where they can thrive. She is known for building meaningful relationships with both candidates and clients and for creating a recruiting experience that is responsive, personal, and focused on long-term success.

Originally from Yakima, Washington, Madeline earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from Whitworth University. Her business and accounting background gives her a unique perspective when partnering with organizations to understand their needs, identify the right talent, and make successful connections.

Madeline has called Central Oregon home since 2021 and loves everything that makes the region such a special place to live. Outside of recruiting, she enjoys skiing, hiking, playing tennis, and spending time with friends. Whether she’s helping a candidate take the next step in their career or helping a company find the person who will make a difference, Madeline brings energy, integrity, and a commitment to making the right match.